illinois marathon expo + pasta feed

Disclaimer: I received an entry for Illinois Marathon to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

ALL THE ORANGE.
2 tanks, 1 long sleeve, 1 t-shirt, 2 BUFF®, 2 Sparkle Athletic Skirts,
1 rain coat, 2 Oiselle Shorts, 2 Moving Comfort Sports Bras, 2 Feetures Socks,
3 color options for KT Tape, 2 Oiselle Rundies, 1 Zensah Sleeves, 1 Headsweats visor,
2 BibRave hats, 1 Orange Mud Endurance Pack, 3 packs of Clif Shot Bloks,
2 Sparkly Soul headbands, 1 Road ID.... is that everything?! Plus 2 pairs of
shoes - it all fit in my Orange Mud bag!

Friday, April 21 was upon us before my eyes. My spring marathon weekend, in which I had been training extremely hard, was here. To say I was nervous, anxious, and excited... that's an understatement. Luckily, it seemed like there wasn't a lot of time for nerves, so that was good.

Friday morning around 9:45 my mom came over to my house, we packed up the car (amazing how much stuff you can have for just a one night stay... I had my Orange Mud Gym Bag (which holds a TON of stuff) filled with all of my running gear, another bag filled with toiletries, PJs, clothing to change into post-race Saturday, a re-usable grocery bag filled with snacks, morning fuel, and bottled water, and a cooler with chocolate milk and almond milk for my protein shakes), and headed to our first stop: Naperville Women's Half Marathon packet pickup (for our race Sunday). That was quick and easy, my mom grabbed some Body Glide and I bought some Run Gum, we stopped next door for some Subway for lunch, and then the road trip officially began.

Not much happened on the drive there, we chatted and made one stop at a rest area about half an hour outside of Champaign. I had been drinking all the water and am surprised I only had to stop once.

Event Guides at the hotel. Nice touch.

We were staying at the Comfort Suites Urbana Champaign and arrived there around 2. Luckily, we were able to check-in early and get our room. In the lobby they had the Illinois Marathon event guide, so I grabbed one to do some research while we waited to go to the expo. We did some unpacking, I got my race gear ready for that night's 5k, ate a Superhero Muffin, and around 3:30 we headed to the expo.

Less than 24 hours until the Illinois Marathon start!
Time for all of that hard work training to pay off.

Traffic was a little heavy closer to the expo, mainly due to pedestrian traffic, but we were able to park easy enough and walked over to ARC where everything was at. We headed to the first gym area to grab our bibs. This was very easy – they just scanned my QR code that I had received via email earlier that week. They had signs for all of the different races and challenges, so easy to know where you needed to go to get your bibs.

Bib pickup area. Notice all the signage.

Next we headed to the other gym to grab our shirts. Again, this was set up very well. I headed to the sign that said Full I-Challenge and was able to get both drawstring backpacks (5k and the nicer one for the marathon that had a front zipper) along with my shirts. I didn't love that the 5k was unisex – they always fit funny, but really liked the colors. I wish I could do the half too because it was a bright yellow shirt. 5k was dark blue and the marathon was a lighter blue. Nice designs and both tech materials, which is what I prefer.

We then walked around the expo, I grabbed a few items at the official merchandise area (a Brooks quarter zip up, water bottle, and a beer stein). Then we met up with BRF and fellow BibRave Pro Angie, took some photos, wandered the expo, and went to grab our pasta party tickets (we received these complimentary from the RD). My first name was listed as my last name on the sheet, but the volunteers found me quickly enough. My mom and I also purchased a day pass from the front desk for the next day (so we could shower before going home). They were $5 a piece. Definitely worth it for me.

Best buds! I'd say we are the coolest runners ever ;)

It had been 2 months since we last saw each other... had to take a ton of photos!

The pasta feed had plenty of food — House Salad, Bread (two kinds - tasty), Choice of Meat Lasagna or Penne Marinara (could request gluten free beforehand), Iced Tea, Lemonade, White Chocolate Bread Pudding and Chocolate Chip Banana Bread — and we ate around 5. The cost was $16 for adults, $7 for kids. My only issue with this was trying to time out the expo, eating, going back to the hotel, and getting ready for the 5k. 

Plenty of seating.

Since we didn't finish up with the 5k and didn't get back to the hotel until 9 or so, I was glad that we had gotten dinner out of the way early. I think for next year, I would get to the expo a bit earlier and probably eat sooner so there wasn't so much rushing (but also... I already booked the hotel that's a block or two from the expo/starting area, so this won't be an issue next year haha).

Plate 1. I went back for more bread and dessert (the chocolate chip banana bread)

During the pasta feed, we also met up briefly with BibRave Pro Andrey. After a quick chat and photo, my mom and I had to say goodbye so we could get back to the hotel to change and come back for the 5k.

BibRave Pro: Me, Angie, Andrey.

Next up will be my review of the 5k. I figured since I am a bit long winded sometimes (or you know, just type a lot and ramble on), it would be best to break everything up a little bit so you wouldn't be stuck reading for 20 minutes. You're welcome.

Stay tuned...

rock 'n' roll expo and 5k recap

I was on the fence about running at the Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon, as the weather is usually pretty miserable in July (sooo hot and humid), but since we were having a fairly tame summer, I decided to register. Another thing that helped make my decision is that they added in a 5k for Saturday in order to receive an extra medal Sunday (for completing both the 5k and half marathon). I have a hard time saying no to more medals! I only registered about a month prior to the race. Generally, I register much sooner to get the cheaper rates... and by earlier, lets say that I'm often registered a year in advance haha.

If you want a short version, check out my BibRave.com review here.

The Rock 'n' Roll Health and Fitness Expo was held on July 17 (12:30–7 pm) and 18 (9:30 am–5pm) at McCormick Place, Hall D1. It seemed like a well run event, though I got there at about 6pm on Friday night and didn't have much time to wander the exhibitors like I had planned. It took such a long time to get there from the bus I hopped on at Michigan Avenue... I was pretty bummed about this. You needed to know your bib number to know what line to jump in. 

I had only received one waiver via email to bring in (that had my half marathon bib number), so was hoping maybe the people participating in the festival were all grouped together and would get both bibs in the same location. False. I ended up needing to go to the solutions desk and get another waiver and have them look up my bib number (I couldn't find it anywhere on the lists they had posted), then hit up the 5k line.

The Course.

After receiving our bibs, we went over to the t-shirt line. I had ordered the half marathon women's shirt up a size, since they suggested it (said sizes ran small and was best to order up). I'm really glad I did – fit perfect! I really liked the blue color, too. Unfortunately, the 5k shirt was HUGE! So disappointing. I had ordered medium, and the smallest size was a small, so I swapped the medium out for that. My mom's registration said she had requested an XS, but again, they didn't come in that size. Weird. I wish they were available. When I took it home, I held it up with one of my husband's large shirts, and it was BIGGER than that. Bananas. They were nice shirts, and made by Brooks, so I really wish the 5k shirt fit better. I do love the half marathon shirt, though, and wear it often.

Inside the expo.

Blurry, but this was the bib pickup area.

Before heading out to check out the other exhibitors, they had some samples for everyone to grab. I got some sunscreen and a few other things. Then, it was to the Brooks Rock 'n' Roll area - lots of great stuff! I ended up getting a tank, a shirt, and the obligatory pint glass. Between my mom and I, we had enough to split it up so we'd both get the VIP bathroom pass for the half (which, I have to say, was AWESOME... I'll elaborate more when I write that recap). 

After paying for our fun Rock 'n' Roll gear, we headed out to the rest of the vendors. Unfortunately, by this time, we only had about 10 minutes left. I was sad because I had a list of vendors I wanted to stop by to purchase product or check it out (curiosity). With the time I had, I was able to try out 'The Stick' roller and purchase two bottles of Tri-Berry Nuun (I also got a Nuun water bottle that was Rock 'n' Roll themed - pretty cool!). Unfortunately at this point, they were making announcements that everyone had to leave. It was the quickest expo evacuation and shut down that I've ever seen. For such a large race (and the addition of the 5k on Saturday), I found it odd that it would close at 7pm. It's not an easy place to get to, whether you are driving in from the burbs or taking public transit from the city. I was shocked at how long it took to get there, and then we barely had any time to enjoy the great expo! I would have loved an 8 or 9pm closing time.

Sculptures in the park by the Art Institute of Chicago.

The morning of the 5k was beautiful - sunny, and upper 60s. The race was set to start at 8am, and mom and I got there around 7:15ish. We hit up the port-o-lets, as usual, which had a bit of a line. Oddly, it was just one long line for a set of maybe 10–15 bathrooms. Usually there's atleast 1 line per set of 2 toilets. They had hand washing stations (yay water and soap!).

I'm really not sure how accurate this course map is.
I don't remember doing that square shape at all. I feel
like it's a bit off - pretty sure that from the start weran down
the sidewalk and did a small half turn down near
the museum campus and then ran the rest of the way back
on the lakefront trail down by the water... ?

The race began on time, and it seemed like they just let everyone go. I don't recall seeing a pace line-up, but we started at the back and passed people along the way. Nothing too spectacular about the course, it was a usual up and back by the lakefront, though coming back it did go down by the lake rather than up on the sidewalk (by lake shore drive). It was mostly flat with one short hill. It's a beautiful view, even if I do see it often during races, I don't really get too tired of it ;)

Beautiful day in the city!

At the start line.

A band on the course.

Great day for a run by the lake!

I like to smile.

After finishing, we received our 5k medal, which I really liked, along with a banana, pretzels, water, and a bagel. We sat by the lake enjoying our post-race snacks and then worked our way to check out the after party. While walking by the start/finish line, I got a glimpse of a blonde ponytail - it was Shalane Flanagan! I took some candid photos and we mosied on our way. While walking to the party, Shalane passed us on a golf cart and stopped at a tent that had a line. I realized she was headed to a meet and greet or autograph signing, so we hurried over to get in line.

Enjoying my post-race bagel.

The goodies!

Awesome medal received in an awesome city ;)

Hey! It's Shalane!!

The start/finish line.

Off to the festival.

Rock 'n' Roll Chicago 5k medals.

Now, I don't know if I just missed something, but I don't remember receiving any info regarding her doing a signing. I knew she would be at the expo Saturday and racing over the weekend, but I would have headed over sooner for her autograph if I knew about it. The line moved fairly quickly, even though she was talking with everyone, signing medals and bibs, and taking photos. It was pretty hot waiting in line – the sun was beating down on us and there was no shade. I honestly was trying to hide in the shade of people's shadows. I could tell my skin was getting burnt... no good. When it was my turn, I told her what a big fan I was and how inspirational she was. It's a bit of a blur – I was just so excited! She was sweet as can be (and super adorable!). When my mom told her she was doing the half the next day as well, she told her how impressive that was. I think that made my mom feel pretty good, as it should.

Ahhhh - one of the greatest moments in my running life!

Super excited.

The festival grounds.

After mom and I got photos with Shalane and she signed our ribbons, we headed on home. I was giddy with excitement from the 2 minute interaction haha. It was time to rest up for the half marathon the next day, where I was sure it was going to be hot hot hot.

bank of america shamrock shuffle 8k expo

Last Friday, March 28, I had to pick up race packets for myself and my mom for the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle 8k taking place on Sunday, March 30, in Grant Park. The Expo was being held at Navy Pier in Hall A.

Notice the construction crane on the right

Navy Pier is a 15 minute walk from my office, so I used my lunch break to head over there. I left around 11:30 in the cold wind, and when I got there, noticed there was a lot of construction going on. It appeared that the whole outside was closed off (the images of the renovations they had on the walls make the new outside look really nice, but I'm not sure when construction will be completed – hopefully by summertime), so everyone had to walk inside. This was a bummer, since it's much easier to bypass people outside on the Pier than it is inside. It was really crowded (spring break for some, perhaps?) with young kids/families meandering about. The other problem was that I was wearing my big winter coat, since it was cold outside, but walking inside I was sweating my booty off! I guess I could have taken it off and carried it, but that would have made squeezing past people and kiosks more difficult. Oh well, not much could be done about either (minor) issue. They did a good job of posting signage to point you in the right direction. I'm sure it was confusing for a lot of people trying to make their way through the construction/inside.

Entering the Exhibit Hall

Anyway, after making my way into the hall where the expo was held, I headed straight to get the bibs (there was no mistaking where that was with the giant banner they had, as you can see in the photo below). Our numbers weren't next to each other, but they were in the same section, so I only had to wait in one line, which was nice. It didn't take long before being helped by the nice gentleman volunteering, as there was only one person ahead of me in line. After a quick minute, I got both the bibs in their envelope (with pins included), thanked the man, and headed to the opposite side of the hall to grab our shirts. 

I had to go to two separate lines for shirts, as my mom and I wear different sizes, but again, it was really quick and I only had to wait behind one person in the first line and none in the second. They had sections, consisting of two volunteers for each: Women's XS, S, M, L, and XL? and Men's XS?, S, M, L, XL. I have to be honest – I didn't pay that much attention to all of the sizes offered. I had my blinders on to get what I needed and get out of the way. The shirts came in a clear plastic bag with the Shamrock Shuffle logo on it, filled with coupons and pamphlets. All of the volunteers were very friendly, which is always nice to bonus. I know sometimes they have to deal with people yelling at them (for things that might not even be their fault), so I try and be extra polite/friendly, hoping to keep them happy (they are volunteering their time, after all). I checked to make sure the shirts were the correct size, held my own up to make sure I didn't need to exchange (they had a little section off to the side of where you picked up the shirts for exchanges), and then I wandered around for a bit. 

This is one of my favorite local expos other than the Chicago Half Marathon (which is in the same location. I haven't done a marathon, so can't speak of that one held at McCormick Place, but I find Navy Pier easier to get to.). They have so many different booths/exhibitors to look at. Mariano's was giving out small samples of wine, pretzel chips, and Naked Juice (I tried Green Machine... pretty good!), Sweaty Bands, Bondi Bands, Nuun (they had samples to taste), Charity Teams, Hippie Runner, FlipBelt, Clif Bar (also with samples), Fitletic, other races, and much, much more! So much to look at, so little time (and energy). After perusing, I went over to the Fleet Feet booth to check out the Shamrock Shuffle gear they were selling (Nike products). I bought my mom a black, long sleeve tech shirt and myself a neon orange, short sleeve tech shirt and a black half-zip tech pullover (the softest material ever! I bought one last year as well, and it's my favorite). I then went to the Official Merchandise section, which were pint glasses, and picked one up for D/myself (to add to our pint glass collection). 

After that, I headed back to work, looking forward to race day. Sunday was scheduled to be fairly nice weather (much better than that day), but in Chicago you just never know until you wake up and head outside.

Race recap coming up next!

registration for avenger's half marathon

Hey guys, just a quick note that registration for the Inaugural Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend (November 14–16) opens at Noon EST tomorrow! Weekend events include the expo, 5k, kids races, pasta in the park party, chEar squad, and the half marathon. Below are a few details regarding events, dates, times, and prices. I have a feeling most of the events will sell out before prices have a chance to increase (like most runDisney events).

Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend Expo

Disneyland Hotel® Exhibit Hall

Noon – 7:00 p.m. on Friday, November 14

10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 15

Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon (5:30 a.m. on Sunday, November 16)

• $195 by April 29, 2014
• $210 between April 30 and June 24, 2014
• $225 on or after June 25, 2014

Avengers Super Heroes 5K (5:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 15)

• $70 by August 20, 2014
• $80 on or after August 21, 2014

runDisney Kids Races (9:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 15)

• $20 by August 20, 2014
• $25 on or after August 21, 2014

Pasta In The Park Party (6:00 – 7:30 p.m. on Friday, November 14)

• Adult with ticket - $135
• Adult without ticket - $89
• Youth with ticket - $115
• Youth without ticket - $69
• Under 3 - $0

ChEAR Squad

• Bronze - $0
• Silver - $39
• Gold - $59
• Platinum - $99
• Under 3 - $0

For more information, go to runDisney's official webpage. Don't wait to sign up, everyone is predicting a FAST sell out!

Who's all planning on registering? Let me know in the comments section :)

*Note that all dates, times, and prices are subject to change. Again, check runDisney's webpage for official information.